IDEAS on how to transform local transport have been aired at a packed meeting in Otley.

MP Alex Sobel (Lab, Leeds North West) organised the event at the Philip Coyne Labour Rooms last week as a follow-up to his recently published transport strategy document. Politicians from a number of parties, including former Otley Town Council leader Councillor Ray Georgeson (Lib Dem, Danefield) and Councillor Mick Bradley (Green, Danefield) were among the speakers.

Representatives from First Bus, Northern Trains and West Yorkshire Combined Authority also spoke before residents, politicians and transport leaders joined groups to discuss potential ways forward. The ideas discussed included everything from electric bike schemes to reconnecting Otley to the rail network.

Mr Sobel said: “I am delighted so many people came to the event and by the positive and constructive atmosphere that was created. Our community-led plan for transport can only work if we all work together for the same goal.

“That’s why I was delighted to be joined by representatives from other political parties. I will work with anyone and everyone to achieve the large-scale transformation we need not just to get people moving but to improve public health, build our local economy and ensure the future of our planet.”

Cllr Georgeson said: “The meeting was a good opportunity to hear residents’ concerns and ideas. There is much frustration with local bus services, but there was also a strong interest in ideas and constructive suggestions for improvements.

“I was pleased to present the StreetVision2030 project ideas that the town council is developing, and received a good response. All parties desire better public transport and safer cycling and walking.”

Cllr Bradley added: “We are all urgently seeking ways to act to reduce our carbon footprint, as individuals and as a town, through Otley 2030. Engaging with the train and bus providers who attended is a key part of this as we need action across Leeds and nationally.

“I hope the long-standing issue of buses reliably connecting to trains at Menston with through-ticketing will be quickly addressed.”

The meeting was chaired by Shannon Coles who is heavily involved with Otley 2030. She said: “It was wonderful to see so many people there, sharing constructive ideas and pulling together in the interests of our town and environment.”